California is full of famous tourist spots that attract visitors from all over the world, but let’s be honest—sometimes the crowds can take away from the fun!
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the state’s iconic landmarks but dread the long lines, traffic and packed parking lots, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
There are many amazing, less crowded alternatives that still offer all the beauty, adventure and excitement, without the hustle and bustle.
Imagine hiking through breathtaking landscapes, strolling along gorgeous coastlines or sipping wine in peaceful vineyards, all while avoiding the usual tourist traps.
Keep reading to discover the hidden gems that are just as incredible as California’s most popular spots!
1. Yosemite National Park Alternative
Ditch Yosemite National Park for Kings Canyon National Park.
If you love the jaw-dropping beauty of Yosemite but want to avoid the crowds, Kings Canyon National Park is the perfect spot!
Located just southeast of Yosemite, this park is packed with stunning scenery, including deep valleys, towering cliffs and ancient sequoias.
It’s home to one of the deepest canyons in the U.S., reaching depths of over 8,000 feet in some areas, and has amazing hiking trails like the 9 mile round-trip Mist Falls Trail.
Plus, you’ll find peaceful rivers and waterfalls without having to jostle for space.
Kings Canyon also connects with Sequoia National Park, so you get a two-for-one adventure!
It’s less crowded but just as awe-inspiring as Yosemite.
2. Disneyland Resort Alternative
Ditch Disneyland Resort for Knott’s Berry Farm.
If Disneyland’s long lines and high prices have you rethinking your trip, Knott’s Berry Farm is the perfect alternative for a fun day out!
Located in Buena Park, just a short 15-20 minute drive from Disneyland, Knott’s has thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions and a charming Old West vibe.
It started as a humble berry farm in the 1920s, but now it’s home to roller coasters like GhostRider and the classic Timber Mountain Log Ride.
You’ll still get the magical theme park experience but without the massive crowds.
Plus, Knott’s has delicious food (don’t miss their famous boysenberry treats!) and special events like Knott’s Scary Farm during Halloween.
3. Joshua Tree National Park Alternative
Ditch Joshua Tree National Park for Mojave National Preserve.
If you’re drawn to the otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree but want a quieter desert experience, head to Mojave National Preserve!
Located about an hour north of Joshua Tree, this hidden gem offers stunning desert scenery without the crowds.
It’s known for its massive sand dunes and the eerie beauty of the Cinder Cone Lava Beds.
And the best part is that you can still see the unique Joshua trees as they have them here too!
You can explore scenic trails, camp under starry skies and even check out old mining towns from the Wild West days.
Plus, you’ll find some incredible stargazing opportunities since it’s far from city lights.
4. Golden Gate Bridge Alternative
Ditch the Golden Gate Bridge for Foresthill Bridge.
If you’re looking to visit an epic bridge without the Golden Gate’s crowds, the Foresthill Bridge is an awesome alternative!
Located near Auburn, about two hours northeast of San Francisco, this is actually the tallest bridge in California, standing a whopping 730 feet above the American River.
That makes it about 500 feet taller than the Golden Gate Bridge!
The views from the top are breathtaking, with the surrounding Sierra Nevada foothills and a beautiful river gorge below.
It’s a great spot for a scenic walk, and if you’re feeling adventurous, there are hiking trails nearby to explore the surrounding nature.
5. Redwood National and State Parks Alternative
Ditch Redwood National and State Parks for Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
If you want to marvel at the towering redwoods without the crowds of Redwood National and State Parks, Humboldt Redwoods State Park is the perfect spot!
It’s located along the scenic Avenue of the Giants, which is a famous 31-mile scenic drive that runs through one of the most impressive redwood forests in Northern California.
This park is home to some of the tallest trees on the planet, including the famous Founders Tree, standing at 346 feet.
You can wander through peaceful, shaded trails and feel completely immersed in nature here.
Humboldt Redwoods also has the largest remaining old-growth forest of coastal redwoods, giving you that magical, ancient forest vibe.
It’s a quieter, more laid-back alternative where you can enjoy the majestic redwoods all to yourself!
6. Lake Tahoe Alternative
Ditch Lake Tahoe for the June Lake Loop.
If Lake Tahoe’s crowds have you searching for a quieter lakeside getaway then the June Lake Loop is a fantastic alternative!
Situated in the Eastern Sierra, this hidden gem offers stunning alpine scenery with crystal-clear lakes surrounded by rugged mountain peaks.
The June Lake Loop is a series of four beautiful lakes: June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake, that are perfect for fishing, swimming or just relaxing by the water.
You’ll find fewer tourists here, giving you more space to soak up the serene views and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking.
It’s like a mini Lake Tahoe, but with a much more peaceful vibe and plenty of adventure!
7. Big Sur Alternative
Ditch Big Sur for Point Reyes National Seashore.
If you love Big Sur’s stunning coastal views but want a quieter experience then Point Reyes National Seashore is the perfect alternative!
Located just north of San Francisco, this rugged stretch of coastline offers dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean views and scenic hiking trails without the heavy tourist traffic.
You can explore secluded beaches, spot wildlife like seals and elk, and even visit the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse.
The area is also known for its vivid wildflower blooms in spring and its foggy, mystical atmosphere that’s straight out of a postcard.
Point Reyes gives you that same awe-inspiring natural beauty as Big Sur but with more tranquility and fewer crowds.
8. Death Valley National Park Alternative
Ditch Death Valley National Park for Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
If Death Valley’s scorching heat and crowds are a bit much, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a fantastic alternative for a unique desert adventure!
Located in Southern California, about 70 miles east of San Diego, this park offers incredible desert landscapes with way fewer visitors.
You can explore vast, open spaces filled with rugged canyons, wildflower blooms in spring and unique desert wildlife like bighorn sheep and kangaroo rats.
The park also has fascinating slot canyons you can hike through, like “The Slot” which is a narrow, winding trail perfect for adventurous hikers.
You can also see an impressive collection of metal sculptures scattered throughout the desert.
Anza-Borrego gives you all the beauty and wonder of the desert without the intense heat or crowds of Death Valley!
9. Napa Valley Alternative
Ditch Napa Valley for Anderson Valley.
If Napa Valley’s bustling wine scene feels a bit too crowded and pricey, then check out Anderson Valley instead.
Tucked away in Mendocino County, this charming wine region offers a more laid-back, intimate experience with world-class wines.
Known for its cool climate, Anderson Valley specializes in fantastic Pinot Noir and sparkling wines, and you can enjoy tastings in cozy, family-owned wineries without the big crowds.
The valley is surrounded by stunning redwoods and rolling vineyards, making it a picturesque spot for a peaceful day of sipping and relaxing.
Plus, the nearby small towns and scenic drives give it that off-the-beaten-path charm.
10. Santa Monica Pier Alternative
Ditch Santa Monica Pier for the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
If the busy Santa Monica Pier feels too crowded, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a fun and nostalgic alternative!
Located along the beautiful Central Coast, this historic boardwalk has all the classic seaside charm with fewer crowds.
You can ride the iconic Giant Dipper roller coaster, play arcade games or relax on the sandy beach just steps away.
The boardwalk offers tons of family-friendly fun, including free summer concerts and events.
Plus, the vibe here feels more laid-back and less commercial than Santa Monica.
11. Alcatraz Island Alternative
Ditch Alcatraz Island for Angel Island State Park.
If Alcatraz Island’s crowds and dark history aren’t your thing, then Angel Island State Park is a peaceful and scenic alternative!
Located in the San Francisco Bay, just a short ferry ride away, Angel Island offers stunning 360-degree views of the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline.
The island is perfect for hiking, biking and picnicking, with plenty of trails that take you through beautiful landscapes and historical sites.
You can even learn about the island’s fascinating past as an immigration station from 1910 to 1940 which processed and detained immigrants, particularly from Asia.
With its serene atmosphere and wide-open spaces, Angel Island is a great way to enjoy nature and history without the eerie vibe or the crowds of Alcatraz.
